Christie Poole's personal experiences and early career feed her work as a therapist. She worked as a Program Coordinator for a non-profit for teens, provided therapy in a church setting and established a private practice. She taught college courses, led Bible studies and organized other church programs. She also spent many years raising a family—being a wife, homeschooling three children, and experiencing the joys and sorrows that accompany this life. "These experiences have reaffirmed my belief in the importance of relationships, family, and faith to personal fulfillment," says Christie, who founded Family Renewal Counseling in Woodstock.
Sue G. Collins: As we press restart in the new year, what advice can you give individuals and families thinking of pursuing counseling?
Christie Poole: When I hear "restart," what I think of is beginning again. What if we had a chance to begin again? What if we could restart our relationships with less conflict? With less pain? What if the coldness we feel toward our spouse or family member had the chance to become loving again? What if, as individuals, we could reboot without heavy levels of depression or anxiety, without the nagging sensation every day that something inside doesn't feel right? What if we could address the loneliness, the ache of emptiness? And what if 2024 could be our best year because it became the starting point for healing ourselves and our relationships? My advice would be - do it. Take the chance to live fully.
SGC: You provide tools to help us deal with life's challenges. What are a few other benefits of counseling?
CP: Physicians are trained to heal the body. Therapists are trained to help heal your heart and mind. The worries that keep you up at night, the heaviness in your heart, the weight you feel making you want to stay in bed - we help you unburden those painful places. For couples and families stuck in conflict, we help you change the pattern that drives division and heartache to one that blossoms, drawing you closer together. Quality counseling can be life-changing.
SGC: How can people find out more about Family Renewal Counseling?
CP: You can find our website at FamilyRenewalc\Counseling.com. You can follow us on Facebook or Instagram at Family Renewal Counseling. Or you can call us at 678.631.7639 to talk with someone about setting up an appointment.
What if we could address the loneliness, the ache of emptiness? And what if 2024 could be our best year because it became the starting point for healing ourselves and our relationships?